Student Leader - Kwun Yee Eva Cen (age 16) - based in IL

After attending the Teen signal workshop led by NIF’s guest speaker Minyue Zhai, who has had more than 20 years of experience in mental health counseling, I’ve gained a nuanced understanding about the stage of adolescence and the reasons behind patterns of teenagers’ behaviors. Through discussing various topics including signs of adolescence and how it shapes emotional changes along with advice for parents when communicating with their kids, Zhai uncovers the biological, psychological...

Nowadays, the pressure on students is increasing rapidly. In between classes, tests, and extracurricular commitments, a whole school day can feel like a tiring marathon with few breaks that allow a relieving breath. However, hidden in a corner of the student center, our school's snack bar recently had a noticeable update with a menu of smoothies and boba drinks after spring break. This is another innovation alongside previous options like pizzas, bagels, and all kinds of other quick snacks...

During my recent visit to the Chicago Art Institute, a certain perspective caught my attention outside of the traditional exhibitions of fabulous artworks. I noticed the presence of multiple forms of digital tools used for the display of works and visitors around me frequently looking down at their phone screens to check the app of the museum for further information, background, and introduction to the art pieces they were appreciating. The emergence of modern technology in an art museum...